Man dumps gas on victim and flees

Police are searching for a man who tried to light another man on fire this morning.

The suspect approached the victim on the 2700 block of Second Street and dumped gasoline on him, Santa Monica Police Department officials said. The victim told police that the suspect then said, “I’m going to light you on fire.” The suspect pulled out a lighter but did not spark it.

Police showed up and the suspect took off running eastbound. SMPD sent out a message asking residents to avoid the area of Marine and Fourth streets while they pursued the suspect. They did not catch him.

The victim was not hurt.

Students at the nearby Santa Monica Alternative School House had to “shelter in place” for about two hours while police cleared the scene. Principal Jessica Rishe sent an e-mail to parents lauding the students and staff on their response to the emergency. Students were asked to remain in classroom. They were allowed to eat and continue with classes.

Police are looking for a man with a shaved head, 20 to 25 years of age, last seen wearing a black t-shirt and Converse shoes.